Meet Lisa
Lisa Marie Ellingsen has been playing guitar since the age of 15 years old. A lead guitar player for rock and Americana bands, Ellingsen did not begin writing her own songs until her mid-twenties. Often compared to one of her musical heroes Lucinda Williams, Ellingsen’s multiple geographic influences shine through. A native of Southern California she immersed herself into the music scenes of New Orleans and New England. Her blend of Americana draws upon rock n’roll, blues, folk, and country. Lisa Marie's new album Nola to Noho was independently released on May 19, 2017.
Extended Bio |
Singer-songwriter Lisa Marie Ellingsen’s alt-Americana sound has a timeless quality. Combining accomplished guitar playing with clear, heartfelt vocals, Ellingsen’s music is influenced by many uniquely American styles, including rock n’ roll, blues, folk, and country. The sound is refreshingly down-to-earth, with a quality reminiscent of her musical heroes Lucinda Williams and Kathleen Edwards. Though she calls Northampton, MA her home, Ellingsen’s music has been greatly influenced by 13 her circuitous journey to New England. Tones of her native Southern California can be heard mixed in with the flavor of New Orleans and a smidge of some Texas country.
Having begun as lead guitarist in various rock and Americana bands, Ellingsen branched off years ago to find her own path. Whether playing solo acoustic or with her band, Ellingsen writes with humble honesty about the pathos of life, moving listeners with her direct, no-frills style. Self-described as a “non-conformer,” Ellingsen’s music can be hard to pigeonhole, just like the songwriter. Many of Ellingsen’s songs draw on the universal journey to find comfort in one’s own skin, a theme that both empowers and brings a sense of community to her fans. A compilation of both old and new original songs, the new Lisa Marie Ellingsen album “Nola to Noho” (released in May 19, 2017) is a tribute to the circuitous route the songwriter took as a musician. Produced by Grammy nominated producer Anand Nayak, the album was recorded at Sonelab Studios (Easthampton, MA) and mastered by Mark Alan Miller, also at Sonelab Studios. The album features Ellingsen’s originals, with Ellingsen on rhythm, lead guitar, harmonica and vocals. Boasting Anand Nayak on guitar, mandolin, and pedal steel, Paul Kochanski on bass, and Jason Smith on drums, the album also features Saera Kochanski/Wishbone Zoe (back-up vocals) and singer-songwriter Kris Delmhorst (back-up vocals and cello). “Nola to Noho” gives fans a satisfying taste of Ellingsen’s alt-Americana sound. While the album features some straightforward rock n’ roll numbers, there is a country leaning to some of the songs, such as “The Nightlife” and “Estela.” “Nola to Noho” also offers songs with a more oldtime sound, such as “A Little Help from Above,” along with a feature instrumental. Ellingsen’s lyrics deal with issues of being comfortable with one’s own identity, mental health struggles, and political apathy, along with some more whimsical themes, such as the (fictional) true crime tune “The Getaway.” |
Current and Past Projects
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In 2013 Lisa Marie cofounded the Woman Songwriter Collective of Western Massachusetts with Katie Sachs, Christa Joy, Carolyn Walker, Wishbone Zoe and Lexi Weege. The Woman Songwriter Collective has quickly warmed their way into the hearts of the Pioneer Valley playing renowned venues like the Iron Horse and hitting the stages of the local festival circuit. The Woman Songwriter Collective released their first EP in December for 2014.
Lisa Marie Ellingsen released her first album of original and cover material in 2010 with her band The Ellingtones. The album features crisp, clean and clear lead guitar which leans heavily on blues, country and rockabilly influences. |
